FILE - In this April 9, 2013 file photo, Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley speaks in Annapolis, Md. As the Obama era nears its final midterm elections, the campaign to succeed him has already begun: Prospective candidates on both sides have been quietly courting donors, taking steps to build an organization and making scouting trips to early voting states like Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina. The official starting line, however, is likely a year away. (AP Photo/Steve Ruark, File)